How much does camping cost at Clearwater Big House?

Camping fees at Clearwater Big House are $75/night. Prices may vary by site type (standard, hookup, premium) and season. Book online to see exact pricing for your dates.

Is Clearwater Big House first-come first-served or reservation?

Clearwater Big House accepts online reservations. We recommend booking in advance, especially during peak season (typically summer weekends). Use campsite alerts to get notified when spots become available.

Can I see photos of campsites at Clearwater Big House before I book?

Yes! Clearwater Big House has 9 campsite photos on Outdoorithm, contributed by campers who've stayed there. Browse real photos of individual sites to see what to expect before you reserve. You can also add your own photos after your trip to help the next family plan theirs.

What is the best time to visit Clearwater Big House?

Clearwater Big House is open January 01 to December 31. The best time to visit depends on your preferences—summer offers the warmest weather and most activities, while spring and fall provide fewer crowds and milder temperatures. Check current conditions before your trip.

Are there showers at Clearwater Big House?

Clearwater Big House does not have shower facilities. Plan accordingly—nearby alternatives may include day-use areas or towns.

How many campsites does Clearwater Big House have?

Clearwater Big House has 1 campsites. Sites vary in size, privacy, and amenities. Check availability online to find the best site for your needs.

Are dogs allowed at Clearwater Big House?

Yes, pets are allowed at Clearwater Big House. Dogs must typically be kept on a leash (usually 6 feet or shorter) and under control at all times. Be sure to clean up after your pet and check for any breed or size restrictions.

What amenities are available at Clearwater Big House?

Clearwater Big House offers: Restrooms, Pets Allowed. See our detailed campground page for the full list of facilities and features.

What activities can I do at Clearwater Big House?

Popular activities at Clearwater Big House include Hiking. The surrounding area offers plenty of outdoor recreation opportunities for all skill levels.

Clearwater Big House

Q: Can I have a campfire at Clearwater Big House?

Fire policies at Clearwater Big House: Don't Move Firewood: Please protect Pacific Northwest forests by preventing the spread of invasive species. Firewood can carry insects and diseases that can threaten the health of our western forests. You can make a difference by obtaining and burning your firewood near your camping destination. Visit Dontmovefirewood.org for further information.. Always check current fire restrictions before your trip, as conditions change seasonally.

4.82

10 reviews

71 WEST MAIN ST, POMEROY, WA 99347, USA

Top 23% in WASummer

Peace & Quiet

Featured in:Fall Camping Washington

Quick Facts

5,600 ft

Price

$75/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

1 campsites

Season

Open May 1 to Decemb...

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

Book on Pomeroy Ranger District Official Website

Get Directions

Quick Facts

5,600 ft

Price

$75/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

1 campsites

Season

Open May 1 to Decemb...

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

Book on Pomeroy Ranger District Official Website

Get Directions

Clearwater Big House

$75.00 / night

Campsite Fees

CABIN NONELECTRIC: $75.00. Plus Recreation.gov reservation transaction fee ($8 online / $9 phone / $3 in person).

No campsite fee categories listed.

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Provider

509-843-1891 OFFICE HOURS MONDAY-FRIDAY 12:30-4:30 CLOSED WEEKENDS & HOLIDAYS

I manage this campground

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Campground Map

71 WEST MAIN ST, POMEROY, WA 99347, USA

Clearwater Big House

71 WEST MAIN ST, POMEROY, WA 99347, USA

Nearby places

Pomeroy: 40-minute drive.

Driving directionsFrom Pomeroy, take 15th Street south which turns into Peola Rd and follow for 8 miles. The road then turns into Mountain Road, follow for 7.5 miles on pavement to the forest boundary. Continue on Forest Service Road 40 for 9 miles to Clearwater Junction (where the fire lookout is located). Turn left onto FSR 42 for 0.25 mile, and then turn right into the Clearwater Guard Station area. The rental cabin is the two-story building. Automobile access to the site runs from June 1 to November 1, depending on weather conditions. In winter, access is by snowmobile, snowshoes, or cross-country skis only. Parking is at Rose Spring Sno-Park, and a Sno-Park permit is needed prior to arrival. From there, visitors can follow FSR 40 for 6.5 miles and turn left onto FSR 42 for another .4 miles turning right at cabin sign and traveling another .1 mile to the cabin.

Weather at Clearwater Big House

Current alerts(7)

Access to cabin in winter is via cross country skis, snowshoes or snowmobile 8 miles on a groomed trail and 1/2 mile on an ungroomed road. Pay close attention to winter weather conditions as they can change quickly.
Entry to the cabin is by combination lock; please call the Pomeroy Ranger District one week prior to arrival at (509) 843-1891 for lock combination and to check on weather and road conditions. Office hours Monday - Friday 7:30 am - 4:30 pm. CLOSED Weekends and Holidays
For current news and events of Pacific Northwest Region National Forests, click here
No off-road vehicles around cabin; they may only be used on designated trails

Best Time to Camp at Clearwater Big House

Best season: summer. Summer offers the most reliable access and the warmest weather for exploring trails and ridge-top viewpoints—expect sunny days with daytime highs around 65–80°F and cool nights dipping into the mid-30s to low-50s at 5,600 ft. This is peak season for hiking, wildlife viewing, horseback outings, and scenic photography of the golden bunchgrass and lodgepole stands, with most facilities open and fewer snow-related access issues. Expect moderate crowds on weekends (especially July–August) but far mil Peak months: July, August, June, September Avoid: January, February, March, April

Best

Summer(Jun-Aug)

4.5 / 5

Top 23% in WA

Best season per sources: reliable access, warm days (65–80°F) and peak hiking/drive opportunities.

Planning Tips

Peak Season: January 01 to December 31. Book 2-3 months ahead.
Operating Season: Open May 1 to December 31. Peak season is from May 1 to September 30; non-peak season October 1 to December 31.

About Clearwater Big House

Clearwater Big House is a single rental cabin operated by the Pomeroy Ranger District in the Umatilla National Forest near Pomeroy, Washington. Perched at 5,600 feet in mid-elevation forest, the cabin offers propane appliances, a spacious layout, and seclusion among lodgepole stands and bunchgrass ridges. Guests use the cabin as a base for hiking and wildlife viewing in the Blue Mountains.

Clearwater Big House is a cabin rental facility ideal for groups, families, and visitors seeking a rustic, secluded experience within the Wenaha-Tucannon Wilderness.

Weather and SeasonsBest season: summer. Summer offers the most reliable access and the warmest weather for exploring trails and ridge-top viewpoints—expect sunny days with daytime highs around 65–80°F and cool nights dipping into the mid-30s to low-50s at 5,600 ft. This is peak season for hiking, wildlife viewing, horseback outings, and scenic photography of the golden bunchgrass and lodgepole stands, with most facilities open and fewer snow-related access issues. Expect moderate crowds on weekends (especially July–August) but far mil Peak months: July, August, June, September Avoid: January, February, March, April

Elevation5600 ft above sea level

Natural Features and SceneryThe cabin occupies a clearing ringed by young pines and subalpine fir, with views across rolling slopes covered in native bunchgrass. Lodgepole stands give way to open meadows where elk graze at dawn and mule deer appear at dusk. The landscape has a gentler profile than the Rockies, with ridges and forests rather than dramatic peaks. At this elevation, the air stays cool even in summer, and wildlife sightings are common enough that reviewers mention them regularly.

Lodging & AccommodationsThe cabin is fully furnished and accommodates up to 10 people. It includes 3 queen beds, 1 full bed, and 5 twin beds. It has propane heat, lights, a stove, and refrigerator. Guests must bring their own bedding.

Programs & ActivitiesNo cultural or educational programs are mentioned.

Best Campsites

Curated by campers, for campers

Reveal picks

Reserving a campsite

Stay Limit

Maximum consecutive stay of 14 nights.

Guests Allowed Per Site

Up to 10 people allowed per reservation.

Tents

Tents are not allowed

RV vehicles

RV vehicles are not allowed

Primitive

Primitive camping is not allowed

Reservable

Reservations are allowed

Reservation PlatformsReservations available through Recreation.gov, call center, and app.

AccessibilityAccessibility features are not explicitly stated in the provided materials or user reviews.

Site SizeThe cabin spans 868 square feet on the first floor and 336 square feet upstairs, offering ample space for up to 10 people.

PrivacyThe cabin is described as more secluded compared to nearby facilities like the Clearwater Lookout Cabin. It is set in a clearing surrounded by young Christmas trees and wilderness.

Total Campsites1 campsites

Recommended SitesGuests should bring their own bedding, water, food, and cooking supplies. Consider camping in non-winter months for easier access.

Best CampsitesThe cabin is the only option here. It's more secluded than the nearby Clearwater Lookout Cabin. Reviewers call it spacious and cozy, though some note the mattresses are worn. The propane setup and clean outhouse get consistent praise.

Need help booking Clearwater Big House?

Reservation tips, booking windows, and free cancellation alerts.

Recreation.gov Guide

Booking tips & windows

When to Book

Find your booking window

Cancellation Alerts

Free alerts for this campground

Amenities available

Clearwater Big House provides a unique cabin camping experience amid the Wenaha-Tucannon Wilderness. The site includes an outdoor fire ring, picnic table, propane-powered amenities (heat, refrigerator, stove, and lighting), and an outhouse across the road. While the cabin is equipped with mop, bucket, and cleaning supplies, guests must bring their own water for drinking, cooking, and cleaning. Also, essential camping gear like bedding, dish soap, matches, and flashlights are necessary.

Fire rings

Picnic tables

Lodging and accommodations

Vault toilets

Cabin Lodging

I manage this campground

Things to do at Clearwater Big House

Clearwater Big House offers a variety of year-round recreational activities tailored to its wilderness setting. Guests can enjoy hiking, horseback riding, scenic drives, and winter sports like snowmobiling, cross-country skiing, and snowshoeing.

Hiking4.0/5

Used as a base for hiking; trails to Teal Springs and Tucannon River nearby.

Wildlife viewing4.0/5

Open meadows with elk grazing at dawn, mule deer and bighorn sheep sightings.

Winter Activities4.0/5Top 5% in Washington

Water Sports

Signature experiences

Stargazing4.0/5Secluded, 5,600 ft location with dark forest clearing likely favorable for stars (inferred).

Photography4.0/5Meadows, ridge views, wildlife sightings and forest openings provide varied photo subjects.

Not sure what to pack?Our complete camping packing checklist

Policies & Safety

No Potable WaterThis campground does not have potable water on-site. Bring all the water you need for drinking, cooking, and cleaning.

No Flush ToiletsNo flush toilets are available; only an outhouse is provided across the road.

No Electric HookupsElectric hookups are not available at this campground. RV campers should arrive with a full battery and plan for off-grid power (generator hours/quiet rules permitting).

No Water HookupsSite-level water hookups are not available. RV campers should fill freshwater tanks before arrival; check the No Potable Water note above if applicable for drinking water.

Fire PolicyDon't Move Firewood: Please protect Pacific Northwest forests by preventing the spread of invasive species. Firewood can carry insects and diseases that can threaten the health of our western forests. You can make a difference by obtaining and burning your firewood near your camping destination. Visit Dontmovefirewood.org for further information.

Trash & RecyclingGuests are required to follow a 'pack it in, pack it out' policy and bring garbage bags for waste disposal. There is no mention of recycling facilities.

Cell CoverageNo information about cell phone reception is provided in the authoritative sources or user reviews.

Trip Planning Tools

Set an AlertGet notified when sites open up Check WeatherHistorical weather data Gear for This TripMatched gear recommendations Packing ListCustomizable checklist

Questions & answers

Researching this campground? Ask anything — other campers and our team will weigh in. No visit required.

Tips from campers

Short heads-ups about the road in, gear quirks, timing, and more. You don't have to have been here to share what you know.

Reviews

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From Booking Sources

4.8

10 reviews

Top-Rated

Clearwater Big House is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews

User reviews for Clearwater Big House highlight its rustic charm, well-maintained facilities, and suitability for family and group stays. Many reviewers appreciate the propane amenities, cleanliness of the outhouse, and proximity to scenic trails and wildlife.

Review Summaries

Based on 10 reviews

What Campers Love

Reviewers commend the cabin's spacious layout, propane appliances, and secluded location. One review notes, 'Breathe in the fresh Blue Mountain air and enjoy your time up in the big house, away from...

Based on 10 reviews

Common Concerns

Complaints include the condition of some mattresses (e.g., one with vomit stains) and challenges with ungroomed trails late in the season.

Based on 10 reviews

Site-Specific Reviews

Site-specific reviews primarily pertain to the cabin itself (site 001 in Loop: AREA CLEARWATER BIG HOUSE). Guests describe it as spacious, cozy, and well-equipped.

Based on 10 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

Guests recommend bringing in all essential supplies, including water, bedding, food, and winter gear. One reviewer advises, 'Pack your own water, food, and bedding. The only part that felt like...

Based on 10 reviews

Seasonal Insights

Winter visitors appreciate the cabin's proximity to groomed snow trails and the ambiance provided by the gas fireplace. Summer visitors highlight the scenic drives and family-friendly games available.

Based on 10 reviews

Camper Quotes

1. 'Snowshoed and skied in from a snow park (7.5 miles). The propane range and stove were wonderful.' - Lauren Walton. 2. 'Peaceful, relaxing experience! Will definitely do again!' - Connie R. 3....

Based on 10 reviews

Pet-Friendly Features

Pets reviews highlight that one dog is allowed at the cabin. A reviewer states, 'Perfect way to get the wife and little kids into the mountains as tenting isn’t what she’s into.'

Based on 10 reviews

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Clearwater Big House

$75.00 / night

Campsite Fees

CABIN NONELECTRIC: $75.00. Plus Recreation.gov reservation transaction fee ($8 online / $9 phone / $3 in person).

No campsite fee categories listed.

Get Notified When Available

We'll monitor this campground and alert you the moment sites become available.

Free to start · paid plans add 2-min scans

256,000+ sites monitored · Email alerts to start; SMS and in-app with an account

Learn more about alerts →

Share this campground

Recreation Dot Gov

Provider

509-843-1891 OFFICE HOURS MONDAY-FRIDAY 12:30-4:30 CLOSED WEEKENDS & HOLIDAYS

Go if

You want a secluded cabin base camp for hiking and wildlife viewing in the Umatilla National Forest.

Skip if

You need electric hookups or prefer a campground with multiple sites and neighbors.

Nearby Campgrounds

Less Visited

3.9

(21)

Clearwater Lookout Cabin

71 WEST MAIN ST, POMEROY, WA 99347, USA

Clearwater Lookout Cabin sits at 5,600 feet in the Umatilla National Forest near Pomeroy, operated by the Pomeroy Ranger District. This rustic rental delivers panoramic views, stargazing, and wildlife encounters in a mid-elevation forest setting. Fall brings crisp weather, golden bunchgrass, and clear skies ideal for hiking and photography, though nearby ATV trails can generate noise.

Clearwater Big House

Quick Facts

Quick Facts

Get Notified When Available

Ask Camp Sage about Clearwater Big House

Campground Map

Weather at Clearwater Big House

Current alerts(7)

Best Time to Camp at Clearwater Big House

Planning Tips

About Clearwater Big House

Best Campsites

Reserving a campsite

Need help booking Clearwater Big House?

Amenities available

Things to do at Clearwater Big House

Policies & Safety

Trip Planning Tools

Reviews

What Campers Love

Common Concerns

Site-Specific Reviews

Get Notified When Available

Go if

Skip if

Explore related camping guides

Ask Camp Sage about Clearwater Big House

Current alerts(7)

Best Time to Camp at Clearwater Big House

Planning Tips

Best Campsites

Reserving a campsite

Need help booking Clearwater Big House?

Amenities available

Things to do at Clearwater Big House

Policies & Safety

Trip Planning Tools

Reviews

What Campers Love

Common Concerns

Site-Specific Reviews